What is required for a court to have general jurisdiction over a defendant?

For a court to have general jurisdiction over a defendant, it is essential that the defendant is a resident of the forum state. General jurisdiction is based on the principle that individuals and entities can be tried in any jurisdiction where they have established a significant presence or ties. For individuals, this typically means being a resident, which allows the forum state to assert authority over them for any claims, regardless of where the underlying events occurred.

While other factors can contribute to establishing jurisdiction (like conducting substantial business activities in the state or owning property there), residency is the cornerstone of general jurisdiction. It signifies that the individual has an ongoing relationship with the state, making it reasonable for them to be subject to that state’s laws and courts.

Other options, such as property ownership alone or transient contacts, do not meet the threshold needed for general jurisdiction. Property ownership might lead to specific jurisdiction but does not suffice for general jurisdiction. Exclusive actions in the forum would also be more relevant for specific jurisdiction rather than general.